Monday, April 12, 2010

Monday Moment #65: a writing prompt for your work in progress

(If you’ve already read this then skip past all the italicized blah-di-blah and start writing.) Monday Moments are writing prompts for your work-in-progress. They are questions that come from my experiences and are my favorite way to find out more about my characters. I find I learn a lot. Some of it I use. Some of it I don’t. But I always, always get to know my character(s) better just by answering the question. I hope you do too. )

I just returned from the wonderful SCBWI WWA conference. It was so much fun to see so many of you there: people I already know, and those who read Cuppa but have never met face-to-face. Love that!

I had the honor of getting to welcome those attending the conference for the first time. It was such a pleasure to get kick-off their conference experience. It took me back to 2001, when my journey into this crazy world began. A good reminder of how far I've come and how hard I've worked.

That's just what it is, right? A journey. A long, busy, frustrating, exhilerating, grit-your-teeth, dig-in-and-do-it journey.

All that said, meeting those first-timers and visiting with friends who've also been on the long journey (and persevered!), it reminded me that from beginning to end you have to sieze every opportunity  (big and small) that comes your way. If you don't, who knows what might have been or when the next opportunity might come along.

(hint, hint)

When does your character have a chance to seize an opportunity? More importantly, do they take it?

8 comments:

Kjersten said...

Perfect prompt for me today, Jolie! Thanks.

Jane Makuch said...

I'm sure your beautiful, smiling face was comforting to new conference goers! I can't wait for SCBWI LA!

Jennie Englund said...

It was nice seeing you again this year, Jolie!

I hope this year is a much better one for you and your family and your book!

Núria Coe said...

Thanks for this! I needed it!
It was great seeing you at the conference. I can't wait till next year's!

Myrna Foster said...

Oh, this is a great prompt. Thanks!

Stasia said...

Totally great seeing you this past weekend. Trying, like you, to seize a few opportunities this year. It was an inspiring (and fun) conference.

Unknown said...

My MC has definitely has had the opportunity to seize the moment and though at the beginning she is hesitant she realizes it's worth it!!!

Enough about me! I love your blog and your title is what made me want to hop on over and check you out!!!

Cuppa Jolie said...

Thank you so much, everyone! I heart you all!

Kjersten...you were so very missed at the conference.

Jane, CAN'T WAIT is right!

Jennie, Nuria, and Stasia - Such a treat to see you all! And Stasia, seize away, girl!

Jen - WELCOME! I'm so glad the name brought you here. Now, I hope you'll have a Cuppa often and stay a while. :)